Calcium Ascorbate

Saturday, April 2nd 2005

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Calcium ascorbate is a buffered salt (mineral) form of the water-soluble antioxidant Vitamin C (ascorbic acid). Calcium is reacted with ascorbic acid to buffer the acidic nature of this vitamin, making it gentler for the special needs of those who may have a sensitive gastrointestinal tract. The pH of this buffered mineral Ascorbate is approximately 6.8 - 7.4 as compared to ascorbic acid that is about a pH of 2.5. Calcium Ascorbate provides approximately 10% elemental calcium.

What does Calcium Ascorbate do?

It is utilized in the formation of collagen and healthy connective tissue. A deficiency in Ascorbate results in a disease called scurvy which manifests as weakened collagen fibers, rotting teeth, delayed healing and open sores on the skin. Ascorbate is involved in many other vital functions such as the mobilization of iron, stimulation of immune system and as an anti-oxidant for scavenging of reactive free radicals.

Is this a necessary vitamin or can our bodies make enough to satisfy our needs?

Many plants and animals do not need to consume foods high in ascorbic acid to meet their need for Vitamin C because they are genetically programmed to produce enzymes that convert glucose into ascorbic acid. Unfortunately humans have only 3 of the 4 enzymes necessary for internal production of ascorbic acid. Therefore we must satisfy our physical needs for this important vitamin through our intake of foods rich in vitamin C and/or take a good supplement.

What is the function of the Citrus Bioflavonoids?

Bioflavonoids are biologically active flavonoid compounds found throughout the entire plant kingdom. Since the discovery of flavonoids in 1936 when they were first isolated from lemons and called citrin and Vitamin P over 4,000 different types have been characterized. Though there are several forms of bioflavonoids in the complex the predominant form is Hesperidin. These flavonoids exhibit beneficial effects on capillary permeability and therefore support blood flow. They are antioxidants that work synergistically with Vitamin C as well as exhibiting anti-inflammatory activity.

The following products are all useful for Energy & Immune system support:

Ester-C 500mg plus Biofavonoids
Ester-C 1000mg plus Bioflavonoids
Ester-C Powder
Ester-C Echinacea Chewables
Extra C Tablets
Family C - 300 grams
Mega C High Potency
Vitamin C with Hesperidin Complex
Zinc Fix Orange

Related health information can be found here:

Adrenal Support
Antioxidants
Cancer
Cold & Flu
Cold Sores
Energy
Immunity
Infections Internal
Skin Health
Vitamin C is essential for fighting infections, wound healing and coping with stress

Related articles can be found here:

Doctors recommend a multi-vitamin a day

New Zealanders Need Zinc

System Well: Immunity boost

Tasty Chewable Ester-C

If you need help or advice, you are welcome to email our naturopathic team with your health question.

Disclaimer: The health information presented here has been written for the New Zealand health consumer. It is of a general nature and is only intended to provide a summary of the subjects covered. The information is not intended to be comprehensive or to provide medical advice to you. While all care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information, no responsibility or liability is accepted, and no person should act in reliance on any statement contained in the information provided. All health ailments should be treated by a qualified health professional.

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